Abstract: In a process for producing para-xylene, a naphtha feed is reformed under conditions effective to convert at least 50 wt % of the naphthenes in the naphtha feed to aromatics, but to convert no more than 25 wt % of the paraffins in the naphtha feed, and thereby produce a reforming effluent. A first stream containing benzene and/or toluene is removed from the reforming effluent and is fed to a xylene production unit under conditions effective to convert benzene and/or toluene to xylenes. In addition, a second stream containing C8 aromatics is removed from the reforming effluent and is fed, together with at least part of the xylenes produced in the xylene production unit, to a para-xylene recovery unit to recover a para-xylene product stream and leave a para-xylene-depleted C8 stream.

Abstract: A process flow sequence for the reduction of polymer fouling while maintaining efficient production levels wherein a dual pressure, dual column configuration is used to effect the reduction in polymer fouling. The dual pressure, dual column configuration of the invention uses a high pressure and a separate low pressure to isolate the desired fractions while effecting a reduction in the production of fouling polymers.

Abstract: A process sequence for treating cracked gases of heavy feedstocks which preferentially produces propylene to the exclusion of propane, butanes and butenes. The process eliminates the need for a depropanizer with the attendant savings in capital and operating costs. In lieu of a conventional C3 splitter, the process features a depropylenizer, i.e. a distillation tower designed to separate propylene from propane, butanes and butenes. A hydrogenation unit to eliminate contaminants can be placed upstream of the depropylenizer or the depropylenizer can be split into two sections with the hydrogenation unit located between the two sections.